§ Q5. Mr. Hirstasked the Prime Minister if she will list her official engagements for Thursday 2 February.
§ The Prime MinisterI refer my hon. Friend to the reply that I gave some moments ago.
§ Mr. HirstIs my right hon. Friend aware that the Government's commitment to help in the reconstruction of Scott Lithgow is widely welcomed in Scotland? Does she agree that the only practicable solution to rebuilding international customer confidence at Scott Lithgow is the acquisition of the yard by a major private contractor?
§ The Prime MinisterYes. Taxpayers have already shown the extensive help they have given to Scott Lithgow by providing something like £165 million since nationalisation. The story of the rig conract between British Shipbuilders and Britoil is a sad one. The right way now is for the contract to go to a new operator, who can make a totally fresh start. If the rig is built successfully, there will be a basically good performance on which to get further orders.
§ Ms. Clare ShortWill the Prime Minister find time to consider the problem that she has of Fascist and racist groups operating at all levels in her party? Will she tell the House and the black community in Britain what action she proposes to take?
§ The Prime MinisterThere is no racism in the Conservative party. We believe in equal opportunities for all our citizens, whatever their background.
§ Mr. BrintonDoes my right hon. Friend agree that the "Panorama" programme last Monday was a disgraceful example—[Interruption.]
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. I do not think that the Prime Minister can hear the question. Will the hon. Member please repeat it?
§ Mr. BrintonI should be delighted to do so. I am sorry that my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister could not hear me. Does she agree that the BBC "Panorama" programme last Monday was a disgraceful example of sensational journalism?
§ The Prime MinisterI hope that those whose names were mentioned in the programme, and who feel that they were not properly represented, will take the matter up with the BBC.